NCJ Number
195067
Date Published
April 2002
Length
98 pages
Annotation
This report discusses two intensive regimes set up for young males aged 18 to 21, at a military establishment in Colchester, England, and at Thorn Cross, a Young Offender Institute, and contains information gained from following the two groups for two years after release.
Abstract
Initially, the two intensive regimes for young male offenders were evaluated by tracking the ex-prisoners for 1 year after their release. Colchester ex-prisoners were reconvicted at a significantly higher rate than Thorn Cross ex-prisoners. This difference was attributed to the fact that cognitive behavioral thinking skills programs, education, training, mentoring, and throughcare were emphasized at Thorn Cross, whereas at Colchester physical activities were emphasized. This report on tracking for 2 years showed that the Thorn Cross group avoided re-offending for 2 months longer than a control group, though their initial reduction over that first year was not sustained. Also, the Thorn Cross group committed fewer offenses than the control group and they were less damaging. A cost-benefit analysis was undertaken and showed five to one savings ratio for every pound spent invested at Thorn Cross, as compared to Colchester where the ratio of pounds spent was equal to pounds lost. Tables, references